I have been journaling for the past 5 years and I would say it has helped me in not one but many areas of my life. For me I journal for my creativity and my mental health. It has aided in my self discovery and personal growth. Journaling can allow you to dive deep within your thoughts, feelings and experiences in a reflective way. By using these simple writing exercises I hope you can gain another perspective of your inner world, patterns and self awareness. If you would like to make the most out of these exercises, I would suggest this blog I have about that. You can find it here. Now let’s carry on.
- Stream Of Consciousness
I do this every morning and every night. I find it has helped me clear my mind before my day starts and helps me relax before bed. To do this exercise, set a timer 5- 10 minutes. You can go up to 15 when you get the hang of it. Don’t think too much about what you are going to write, simply just write. Don’t let your pen leave the page, write whatever comes to mind even if it is “i don’t know what to write.” don’t bother fixing your grammar, spelling or even finish thoughts. If your mind jumps from one thought to another, let it. This can help you think about things you, yourself didn’t even know you were thinking.
- Be Thankful For What You Got
Gratitude journaling can be a reflective process for what you have in your life. This exercise just takes a few minutes of your time, each day write at least one thing you are grateful for. Whether this is “I have the time to write”, or “ I woke up today” , anything counts.
- Dear, Younger Self
Write a letter to your younger self. Give your younger self advice and reassurance. Tell them about how much you have done in your life and what you are going to do with your life. This can offer your inner self a mentor that you didn’t have during those times. This will help you realize how far you have grown and how you are your own mentor.
- See It Like You Already Have It
Write down your dream life as it’s already happening. Describe what you do on a daily basis, what goals you have completed. Writing this is a visualizing detail that you actually see yourself doing. This can be considered a way of manifestation. This exercise can help you clarify what you are aiming for and motivate you to take the action steps to get there. You envision this life of yours so well meaning your future self already has it. This is what you are working towards and you will find yourself receiving it before you think.
- Who Am I?
For this exercise, describe yourself as the person you want to be. I have done this exercise once and I read it everyday. Write about how you talk to people, what foods you eat everyday, how much water you drink, what you wear, how you want people to view you as a person. Writing these things down and reading it everyday will make you want to make it true. You read this paper you wrote about yourself and you start to take actions moving towards that new you.
By taking the time to do these writing exercises will help you gain a better grip on yourself. Help you understand your values and goals and who you are working for. Journaling isn’t a one time thing, take time to find more exercises and continue this on going journey of self discovery. Your future self depends on you.